clitellum

[ klahy-tel-uhm ]

noun

, plural cli·tel·la [klahy-, tel, -, uh].

1. a ring or saddle-shaped region of glandular tissue in the body wall of certain annelids, as earthworms and some leeches, that after copulation secretes a cocoon in which the eggs and sperm are deposited for fertilization and development.

clitellum

/ klɪˈtɛləm /

noun

1. a thickened saddle-like region of epidermis in earthworms and leeches whose secretions bind copulating worms together and later form a cocoon around the eggs

Word History and Origins

Origin of clitellum¹

1830–40; < New Latin, neuter noun based on Latin clītellae packsaddle

Word History and Origins

Origin of clitellum¹

C19: from New Latin, from Latin clītellae (plural) packsaddle

Example Sentences

Clitellum always present, extending over two (many limicolous forms) to forty-five segments (Alma).

From Project Gutenberg

Clitellum generally only two or three segments and more anterior in position than in Terricolae.

From Project Gutenberg

Clitellum commonly extensive and more posterior in position than in other groups.

From Project Gutenberg

Clitellum, kli-tel′um, n. the saddle of an annelid, as the earthworm:—pl.

From Project Gutenberg

Clitellum not present as a definite organ, as in Oligochaeta.

From Project Gutenberg